WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Purdue athletics director Morgan Burke this morning was informed by Kent State director of athletics Joel Nielsen that he was voiding the contract for the Sept. 3, 2011, football game.

Per the agreement, which was signed June 12, 2008, Kent State will pay Purdue its guarantee of $425,000.

"This is a new one, having someone opt out of a contract just over 10 months before a game," Burke said. "I am personally surprised because of the positive relationship Purdue and Kent State have had through the years. We will get on the phone immediately to begin the process of finding a new opponent."

Kent State subsequently announced today that it will play at Alabama on Sept. 3, 2011.